Terrorism a National Challenge, Requires Collective Effort: ISPR DG

Pakistan Army Ready to Deliver Decisive Response to Indian Hostility,

Rawalpindi-(Mudassar Iqbal)-DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary held a press conference to brief on Pakistan’s internal security issues, measures taken against terrorism, and training exercises of the Pakistani Armed Forces in 2024.

In 2024, Pakistan conducted 59,775 successful intelligence-based operations against terrorists and their facilitators, resulting in the killing of 925 terrorists, including 73 most-wanted terrorists ¹. The most wanted terrorists killed include Mian Syed Arif Qureshi alias Ustad, Mohsin Qadir, and Attaullah alias Mehran. Additionally, 14 wanted terrorists have been mainstreamed as a result of the best strategy of state institutions.

We have fought and continue to fight a long battle against terrorism,” the DG said, highlighting the critical role of Pakistan’s military in maintaining national security.

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The year 2024 has seen important developments, with a focus on addressing national security issues, according to Major General Sharif. He stressed the need to continue efforts to eliminate terrorism for a secure future.

He reiterated the Pakistan Army’s ongoing commitment to addressing separatist movements in India and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the oppressed people of occupied Kashmir, stressing that they are waiting for the implementation of United Nations resolutions.

He also mentioned that India has conducted several false-flag operations to escalate tensions in the region.

The Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that Pakistan is fully aware of the threats posed by India on the eastern border.

He also mentioned that India has violated ceasefire agreements 25 times, carried out 564 speculative fire incidents, and committed 61 airspace violations, along with 181 tactical air violations.

“We stand with the people of occupied Kashmir and continue to advocate for the fulfillment of UN resolutions that call for their right to self-determination,” Major General Sharif said, emphasizing Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and support Kashmiris’ struggle for justice.

For two years, discussions with the interim Afghan government have been ongoing, both directly and indirectly. Pakistan consistently conveys one message: “Do not prioritize terrorists over relations with Pakistan.”

Pakistan urges Afghanistan to stop facilitating terrorists and control Afghan suicide bombers operating from their soil.

Leaders of extremist factions have operated freely from Afghanistan during this period, perpetuating dual policies.

On December 21, 16 soldiers were martyred in South Waziristan. DG ISPR questioned the decisions that led to resettlement agreements with militants, asking, “Who empowered and sustained them? Who bears the consequences of these flawed policies?”

Over 59,775 successful operations were conducted by security forces in 2024, resulting in the elimination of 925 militants and the arrest of hundreds.

These operations included 73 high-value targets and disrupted several terror networks equipped with foreign-made weapons and explosives.

Prominent militants neutralized include: Mian Syed alias Qureshi: An extremist leader in the Malakand Division. Attaullah alias Mehran: Involved in attacks on diplomats in Swat. Sana alias Barro and Zarif Shah Jahan: Baloch separatists. Insaafullah and Roohullah: Afghan suicide bombers intercepted with explosives and weapons.

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Over 800,000 illegal Afghan residents have been repatriated. Border management systems like the One Document Regime and enhanced digital surveillance are in place. Smuggling has reduced significantly.

DG ISPR emphasized the crackdown on illegal spectrum activities, which facilitate lawlessness and terrorism. Political backing of such activities must end to ensure the rule of law and economic progress.

Proportionally higher socio-economic projects are underway in Balochistan compared to other provinces.

The false narrative of deprivation is being exposed, with locals recognizing the sources behind such propaganda.

Pakistan Army conducted 160+ intelligence-based operations daily to thwart terrorism.

Counter-terrorism operations in 2024 resulted in 383 personnel embracing martyrdom. The nation pays tribute to these heroes and their families.

Pakistan Army remains renowned globally for its rigorous training standards, continuously preparing for conventional and unconventional threats.

Integrated Transit System projects at Chaman and Torkham border points are 90% complete and expected to be operational within 2-3 months, reducing clearance times for trade goods.

Initiatives like the Safe City Project in Quetta, joint border management systems, and the establishment of border markets have been implemented to enhance security and trade.

Over 15,825 acres of land have been brought under cultivation as part of socio-economic development projects.

Training remains a core aspect of the Pakistan Army’s identity, focusing on preparation for traditional and non-traditional threats.

Pakistani Armed Forces Training and Exercises,

The DG ISPR highlighted the various training exercises and programs conducted by the Pakistani Armed Forces, including:

– Pre-induction training: Given to 11,071 soldiers of 31 units.
– International joint exercises: Eight different exercises were organized, with participation from 12 countries.
– Multilateral exercises: Pakistan Navy participated in 25 exercises, while air forces of 24 countries participated in Exercise Industrial 2024.
– Long-term War Games strategy: Completed in 2024.

Welfare Projects,

In 2024, 31 units and over 11,000 soldiers underwent pre-induction training. Army-level exercises are planned for 2025 to further enhance operational readiness.

The Pakistani Armed Forces, in cooperation with the federal and provincial governments, have completed various welfare projects, including:

– Outreach programs: 6,500 programs were launched in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
– Educational facilities: Over 7 lakh students were provided facilities under the “Ilm Tolu Da Para” program.
– Medical camps: 113 medical camps were established in the health sector.
– Railway track repair: 93 km of the railway track between Sibi and Harnai was opened after 17 years of repair.
– Kachhi Canal: Irrigating 65 acres of land in the first phase from November 2024.
– Green Pakistan Initiative Program: 15,825 acres of land have been brought under cultivation.